What schools can learn from preschools about supporting trans children

In recent years, there has been an increased awareness and understanding of gender diversity, including the needs of transgender children. While progress has been made in some areas, schools continue to face challenges in effectively supporting trans students. However, there is much to be learned from preschools, where inclusive practices are often more embedded and natural. By examining the approaches of preschools, educators and policymakers can gain valuable insights into creating supportive environments for trans children in all educational settings.

Preschools are characterized by their emphasis on play-based learning and social-emotional development, which inherently fosters inclusivity and acceptance. Here are several key lessons that schools can learn from preschools:

Affirming Environment: Preschools excel in creating environments where all children feel affirmed and valued for who they are. Trans children are supported in expressing their gender identity without fear of judgment or discrimination. This is achieved through the use of gender-neutral language, diverse representation in materials, and promoting a culture of respect and acceptance. Schools can emulate this by adopting policies and practices that prioritize affirming the identities of trans students and creating safe spaces where they can thrive.

Education and Training: Preschool educators undergo training to understand and support the needs of diverse learners, including trans children. They receive guidance on terminology, inclusive language, and best practices for creating inclusive classrooms. Schools should prioritize similar training for teachers and staff to ensure they are equipped to support trans students effectively. This training should be ongoing to keep educators updated on the latest research and strategies for supporting gender-diverse students.

Flexible Policies: Preschools often have more flexible policies around gender-specific activities and dress codes. For example, children are allowed to choose which toys they want to play with and are not restricted by traditional gender norms. Schools can benefit from adopting similarly flexible policies that allow trans students to express their gender identity freely. This may include allowing students to use the restroom and participate in activities that align with their gender identity, rather than their assigned sex at birth.

Peer Education: Preschools promote peer education and peer modeling as effective ways to teach children about diversity and inclusion. Trans children are accepted and embraced by their peers, who learn from an early age that differences are to be celebrated. Schools can encourage peer education programs and promote empathy and understanding among students to create a supportive community for trans children.

Family Involvement: Preschools recognize the importance of family involvement in supporting children’s development. They work closely with parents and caregivers to ensure that the needs of all children are met. Schools can learn from this approach by actively involving parents in discussions about supporting trans students. This may include providing resources and support for families, hosting workshops on gender diversity, and fostering open communication between home and school.

Inclusive Curriculum: Preschools prioritize inclusive curriculum and materials that reflect the diversity of their student population. They incorporate books, toys, and activities that feature diverse gender identities and family structures. Schools can follow suit by reviewing their curriculum and ensuring that it is inclusive of trans experiences and perspectives. This helps create a more welcoming and validating learning environment for trans children.

Supportive Staff: In preschools, educators serve as role models for acceptance and inclusivity. They actively support and advocate for trans children, ensuring that they feel seen, heard, and valued. Schools must prioritize hiring and retaining staff who are committed to creating a supportive environment for all students, regardless of gender identity. Professional development opportunities should be provided to help staff develop the skills and knowledge needed to support trans students effectively.

Anti-Bullying Policies: Preschools have anti-bullying policies in place to address instances of discrimination or harassment based on gender identity. Schools must have clear and robust anti-bullying policies that explicitly include protections for trans students. These policies should be communicated to students, parents, and staff, with clear procedures for reporting and addressing incidents of bullying or discrimination.

Access to Resources: Preschools ensure that trans children have access to resources and support services that meet their unique needs. This may include access to counseling, gender-affirming healthcare, and support groups for trans youth and their families. Schools should work with community organizations and healthcare providers to ensure that trans students have access to the resources they need to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Celebrating Diversity: Preschools celebrate diversity in all its forms, including gender diversity. They hold events and activities that highlight the contributions and experiences of trans individuals, promoting understanding and acceptance among students and staff. Schools can incorporate similar initiatives into their programming to create a culture of celebration and acceptance of gender diversity.

In conclusion, schools have much to learn from preschools about supporting trans children. By prioritizing inclusivity, education, flexibility, and collaboration, schools can create environments where trans students feel affirmed, supported, and valued. By adopting the lessons learned from preschools, educators and policymakers can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive educational system for all students, regardless of gender identity.